Keeping the lights on and the doors open for small business

ENERGY bills for small businesses across Australia will be cheaper after the Coalition Government announced a plan to ensure reliable and affordable energy for all Australians.

Minister for Small Business Michael McCormack said the National Energy Guarantee announced by the Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Minister for the Environment and Energy Josh Frydenberg will deliver affordable, reliable electricity and gives small businesses the certainty and confidence they need.

"The National Energy Guarantee will lower electricity bills, make the system more reliable, encourage the right investment and reduce emissions without subsidies, taxes or trading schemes," Mr McCormack said.

"By supporting small businesses to voluntarily conserve energy in exchange for incentives such as rebates on their energy bills and by recently securing agreement from energy retailers to provide clearer information, small businesses will be able to make informed choices about their energy plan which will save them money.

"The cost of energy has been an ongoing strain for many small businesses and we now have a tangible back pocket win with a boost to the bottom line to bring energy bills down, this means businesses can invest and expand, employ more people and continue to grow local economies around the country.

"This Government will always back small business to thrive and prosper because we know they are the drivers of our economy and we are making sure they have fuel in the tank.

"We have delivered tax cuts, extended the instant asset write-off, slashed red tape, simplified GST reporting, balanced the playing field by fixing competition policy and now we are relieving pressure for small businesses with their energy bills.

"This Government has listened and acted and this plan ensures affordable and reliable energy for Australian small businesses to keep the lights on and the doors open."